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Bmw
R 51/3
Classic · 490 cc
For sale now1 motorcycles
- Engine
- 490 cc
- Power
- 24 hp
- Weight
- 184 kg
- Price range
- €12,990 – €12,990
- Avg. mileage
- 80,127 km
- Common year
- 1953 · 1 motorcycles
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Price trend
Based on price data from 6 of the past 12 months.
Used prices have held steady since May 2026.
Model family
R 51/3 at a glance
Quick reference values. Model year, generation and trim can differ.
Displacement
490 cc
Power
24 hp · 18 kW
Torque
32 Nm
Category
Classic
Specifications
- Displacement
- 490 cc
- Power
- 24 hp · 18 kW
- Torque
- 32 Nm
- Weight
- 184 kg
- Seat height
- 780 mm
- Top speed
- 130 km/h
- Production
- 1951 – 1954
- Category
- Classic
Search results
1 results for Bmw R 51/3
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Comparable models
Also worth considering
Models in the same category and price range to consider alongside the R 51/3.
Generations and editions
Features and handling differ by generation. Use this overview to find the right version.
1 variants
Years
1951 - 1954
R 51/3
GenerationThe 1951–1954 BMW R 51/3 is a 490 cc boxer classic with shaft drive. Check engine and frame numbers, carburettors and ignition, final drive and brakes, plus oil leaks, electrics and restoration quality before judging value or usability.
490 cc24 hp2 cyl.
About this model
About the Bmw R 51/3
The BMW R 51/3 is an air-cooled 500 cc flat-twin produced by BMW from 1951 to 1954. Its horizontally-opposed cylinders drive the rear wheel via a shaft, the hallmark of every postwar BMW. Producing 24 hp from 184 kg, the R 51/3 was a dependable and well-built road machine that laid the groundwork for BMW's long-running motorcycle heritage.
The R 51/3 appeals to veteran riders and classic collectors rather than newcomers. Its outdated dynamics and absence of modern safety features make it unsuitable as a daily rider. Use cases are limited to historic rallies and leisurely weekend outings. Contemporary rivals include the Triumph Thunderbird and the Norton Model 7.
- Category
- Classic
- Production
- 1951 – 1954
- Power
- 24 hp
- Weight
- 184 kg
Before you buy
What to check before buying
- Check the shaft drive for play and universal-joint wear; sourcing replacement parts is difficult due to scarcity.
- Inspect the leading-link front fork for oil seepage; original damper fluid degrades and seals are hard to find.
- Check the magneto ignition for worn contact-breaker points; incorrect ignition timing causes poor combustion.
- Look for rust on the frame and mudguards; original paint is thin and these bikes often sit idle for years.
- Inspect the Bing carburetors for aging float needles and diaphragms; genuine spares are scarce.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about the Bmw R 51/3
What does a used Bmw R 51/3 cost?
A used Bmw R 51/3 costs €12,990 on average. Most cost €12,990 to €12,990. This is based on 1 motorcycles for sale now.
How many used Bmw R 51/3 are for sale?
MotorMonitor now compares 1 used Bmw R 51/3 motorcycles from Dutch sales sites.
What year and mileage does an average used Bmw R 51/3 have?
The average used Bmw R 51/3 is from 1953 and has done about 80,127 km.